In a nod to the legacy and ongoing contributions of Black farmers, Governor Josh Stein recognized their impact on North Carolina's agriculture during a recent Black History Month event. Joined by members of the African American Heritage Commission and the Legislative Black Caucus, Governor Stein highlighted the integral role Black farmers have played in shaping the state's agricultural narrative. According to a statement from the official Governor's website, Stein expressed his respect for the community, stating, "I am honored to shine a light on the contributions of Black farmers, whose innovation and resilience helped build North Carolina’s agricultural economy from the ground up."
Marking both the centennial of Black History Month and America's 250th anniversary, the event served as a platform for acknowledging the strides made in racial equality, alongside an admission of the work ahead. "We’ve made great progress in the fight for racial equality, but we must keep working to deliver a North Carolina where all people can thrive," Stein mentioned, as recorded by an official press release. The Governor's words also underscore the juxtaposition of a celebration of progress amidst the continuing journey towards equality.
While the Governor's office did not unveil specific policy initiatives during the event, the gathering was symbolically significant, coming at a time when recognition and support of Black farmers remains a pertinent issue. Stein’s acknowledgment comes in the wake of historical challenges faced by Black farmers, including discriminatory lending practices and a lack of access to land and resources, which have significantly reduced their number over the past century.
